Stop Child Trafficking Now

This Sunday, I will be walking to Stop Child Trafficking Now. As difficult as it is to believe or even consider, slavery continues in many forms throughout the world. One area that has gotten more exposure lately is the trafficking of children, primarily for the sex trade. This is happening right here in the United States.

UNICEF estimates that child trafficking is a $12 billion dollar a year business with over 1.2 million child victims. The U.S. Department of Justice estimates that 200,000 American children are trafficked into the sex industry each year. As a mother, I can't bear to think about this happening to people. But not thinking about it won't make it go away. We have to take steps for that to happen.

Here is some additional information to consider:

Statistics

The Face of Slavery

Sex Slavery

Please consider supporting me in this worthy cause. Thank you!

Vacation! | Raleigh Family Photographer

I've been out for a week and will be out for another week. After that, I'm back to business as usual : ) This has been a great (and much needed) time of rest and fun for me and my family and friends. I'm grateful to be able to have these moments.

Oh, and if you're a burglar, please know that my very tough and strong brother-in-law is still at the house, so don't even think about it ; )

Nicholson Family | Raleigh Family Photographer

Little Wyatt was such an explorer! Thankfully, there was plenty of room to roam around at our location and there were even a few cows! I really enjoyed being with this lovely family. At one point, Wyatt even gave me a hug...and I melted : ) Thanks for such a sweet morning!

Vickie and Ava Grace Part II | Raleigh Baby Photographer

Vickie, I meant to include this one yesterday and forgot : )

Vickie and Ava Grace | Raleigh Baby Photographer

It was a perfect evening at the Raleigh Rose Garden and Ava Grace was on her best behavior, even though we were approaching her bedtime. It was fun seeing her enjoying the atmosphere and looking at the running water of the fountain. Such a sweet baby--and very much loved, as you'll see here. Vickie, I'll have your gallery for you soon!

Matilda Jane | Raleigh Children's Photographer

I told you Matilda Jane stuff was cute, and here's the proof. This halter top and ruffle pants are just a sampling of some of the great stuff from this season's line. Fake tattoos are not included. By the way, I don't think my parents were crazy about Talah's (faux!!!) ink. Is that right, Mom?

Talah in Late Winter | Raleigh Children's Photographer

I had planned to make Talah a scarf for months and hadn't gotten to it. I had only crocheted a couple of things, so I was a little intimidated by the idea, despite my mom always telling me how easy it is. Incidentally, my mom is great at crocheting and I'll include a picture of the stocking she made for Talah in another post. I ended up making Talah a little cowl neck warmer instead (thanks for your help, Clare!). I have to say, she looks pretty darn cute in it (if I do say so myself!) : )

Addison's First Birthday! | Raleigh Family Photographer

It's not every day that you turn one, so this was a special day! The Green family asked me to come over and capture their daughter Addison's first birthday (please just look at her little curls!). It was so cute watching her open presents and try cake for the first time. All of the family and friends were really sweet, and I was so glad that I could share in the day and be there for this great occasion!